Rekha ji has an innate sense of style and innovation: Manish Malhotra

More than my studies, I was obsessed with movies as a child. All my summer holidays were spent watching movies. And as far as clothes, styles and versatility goes Rekha ji was absolutely on top. You must remember, those days heroines were meant to look glamorous with a special emphasis on their look. And she really took it away in that department. The expressions she brought to every dance movement. She just didn’t miss a beat.

Talking about her looks, they were always so distinct. Her high neck blouses in Jeevan Dhaara (1982), the Gujarati style of wearing a saree in Maati Maangey Khoon (1984). Her look in Daasi (1981) or Baseraa (1981) it had that “Rekha” touch. For that matter her look in Khubsoorat (1980) is so different from her look in Agar Tum Na Hote (1983). I’m sure when she worked with directors like Yash Chopra and Feroz Khan, they being inherently stylish directors, would have contributed to the look. But even in films where the directors didn’t add much, you can see how much she has imprinted her signature style. She has an innate sense of style, you can see innovation in the clothes that she wore. You could see it in the jewellery. Everything was handpicked. There was no “chalta hai” kaam in her work. It was impeccable. See how she drapes a saree and makes it her own every single time. Her personality is synonymous with sarees.

My first real interaction with her was during the Filmfare awards when she presented me with the costume award for Rangeela in 1996. It was an absolute honour. Then I worked with her on Ram Gopal Varma’s Bhoot (2003). It was a one tonal look with kurtas, chiffons, pastel colours. I would also see her at work during Bulandi (2000) where I designed Raveena Tandon’s outfits.

Over the years I’ve designed for her appearances and events. I remember another time when we worked together in the Om Shanti Om (2007) song. I had given her an old lace saree and she added her own flourishes to it, she said “It needs the Rekha touch”.

She’s not just interested in clothes. But she’s an aesthete. Be it fabric, interiors, architecture, flower arrangement, she takes a keen interest in everything. Be it a photoshoot or an appearance, the amount of hard work that she puts in is tremendous. And she does it so effortlessly. My team and I always have so much to learn from her.

She has a photographic memory of films and songs but she never dwells on any of it too much. I’m always struck with her childlike enthusiasm. She’s always so positive and warm about things and people. I’ve never heard her gossip or say anything negative. She’s full of love. And most importantly she’s never bored. Her eyes are filled with life taking in minute details, observing, listening. I do think all of this goes into making her the unique, iconic person and actor that she is.

Ace designer Manish Malhotra speaks about Rekha. Continue reading …Read More